Howley said: "The side is fit and raring to go and on the bench we have brought in Sam [Warburton] and Alun Wyn [Jones], who have both returned from injury, which is a boost to the squad.

"In France the players showed real determination and resilience and we will need that again in Rome. Italy have already showed so far in this campaign what they are capable of, so we know the challenge we will be facing on Saturday."